keep
/kip/
Reviewed on
Type
Verb
Meaning
To continue to have something and not give it back or throw it away.
You can keep the book. I've already read it.
To stay, or to make someone or something stay, in a particular condition or place.
Wear a hat to keep warm.
To continue doing something, or to do it many times.
Keep walking until you see the bank on your left.
To put or store something in a particular place.
We keep the extra blankets in the hall closet.
To do what you have promised or agreed to do.
He always keeps his promises.
To make someone late or delay them.
Sorry I'm late. My last meeting kept me longer than I expected.
How it's used
When this means “stay in that condition”
- keep + adjective
Please keep quiet during the movie.
When this means “make something stay in that condition”
- keep + object + adjective
Keep the door closed so the cat doesn't get out.
When this means “continue doing something, or do it again and again”
- keep + -ing
My phone keeps turning off.
When this means “store something somewhere”
- keep + object + in/on/at + place
I keep my passport in a drawer.
When this means “do what you said you would”
- keep + promise/secret/appointment
Can you keep a secret?
Collocations
- keep the change
- keep a receipt
- keep warm
- keep calm
- keep in touch
- keep going
- keep trying
- keep in the fridge
- keep a promise
- keep a secret
- keep someone waiting
Antonyms
Idioms
keep up with
to move or progress at the same speed as someone or something
It's hard to keep up with all the new apps.
keep it up
used to tell someone to continue doing something well
Great work this week. Keep it up!